The Rotaract Movement

Rotary is a global network with 1.4 million passionate individuals in 46,000+ clubs who have dedicated themselves to positively changing the world by creating a lasting impact in the community while developing themselves. The motto of Rotary is “Service Above Self” which explains the philosophy of unselfish Volunteer Service.

Rotaract was initiated as a youth program for Rotary International in 1968 at Charlotte North Rotary Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States and today, it is led by young leaders who are developing innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges. Rotaract clubs bring together people ages 18 and older to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and serve the community. Today, there are more than 10,000 Rotaract Clubs across 180 countries which embody 203,000+ Rotaractors.

In the year 1969, Rotaract was introduced to Sri Lanka. Since then, it has grown as a youth-led forum for leadership and fellowship in the country’s social innovation. At present, there are over 8000 proactive volunteers expanded to more than 90 Rotaract Clubs with a geographical representation in 8 administrative provinces of the country including Colombo, Kandy, Rathnapura, Badulla, Hatton and Jaffna districts. The year 2019 was a milestone for Rotaractors in Sri Lanka as they proudly rejoiced in the glorious Golden Jubilee of Volunteerism in Sri Lanka.

Rotary International President, Rtn. Jennifer E. Jones, through her theme for the RI year 2022-2023, “Imagine Rotary” urges all members of Rotary, Rotaract and Interact to dream big and harness their connections and the power of Rotary to turn those dreams into reality.  

As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, Rotary values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Through Rotaract activities, the members have provided social access to many deprived areas and have used their knowledge, experience, professional and personal bonds in developing platforms that empower various groups under the Rotary’s seven areas of focus and the 2030 Sustainable Development docket.